# Force Majeure in Construction

> Force majeure excuses a contractor from a deadline when an event beyond its control stops work. See what counts, a worked example and how delays are recorded.

Canonical: https://superwise.site/glossary/force-majeure/
Last updated: 2026-11-01

A contract clause that excuses a party from its obligations when an unforeseeable event beyond its control prevents performance.

## What is Force Majeure?

Force majeure, which translates to superior force, is a clause in a construction contract that temporarily excuses a contractor from its obligations, such as meeting a deadline. It applies to unforeseen and uncontrollable events, such as natural disasters, wars or pandemics.

## Practical example

A contractor is building a bridge with a strict 12-month timeline. In month 8, an unprecedented Category 5 hurricane floods the site and stops work for three weeks. The contractor invokes the force majeure clause, which extends the project deadline by 21 days with no [liquidated damages](https://superwise.site/glossary/liquidated-damages/).

## In SuperWise

In SuperWise a stoppage caused by weather is logged as an issue against the affected task, with photos attached and the date it was opened. The [daily progress report](https://superwise.site/glossary/daily-progress-report/) (DPR) lists issues opened or updated on its date and can add weather conditions. A contractor can attach the DPR for each affected day when applying to the client for an [extension of time](https://superwise.site/glossary/extension-of-time/).

[Construction Hindrance and Delay Log](https://superwise.site/templates/construction-hindrance-delay-log/)

## Related terms

- [Liquidated Damages (LD)](https://superwise.site/glossary/liquidated-damages/)
- [Extension of Time (EoT)](https://superwise.site/glossary/extension-of-time/)

## Related
- [Liquidated Damages (LD)](https://superwise.site/glossary/liquidated-damages/)
- [Extension of Time (EoT)](https://superwise.site/glossary/extension-of-time/)
- [Construction Hindrance and Delay Log](https://superwise.site/templates/construction-hindrance-delay-log/)